Roofing needs to be done properly for a leak-proof seal. Here are some steps that need to be taken to have a solid roof.
There are specific steps roofers take to ensure a solid,
leak-proof layer of roofing. No shortcuts must be taken in order to have an optimum result. Individuals who think that all there is to it is to hammer a few shingles have never had the actual experience. If a person was to just hammer a haphazard layer of shingles, peeling, leaking and wear-and-tear would likely occur fairly rapidly.
An experienced contractor will know all about the basic steps which include climbing up to take a look, assembling materials, tearing off old layers, prepping the surface and laying the next layer of materials. After all is said and done, clean up must be done which will usually entail a dumpster rental. Here are some things to think about:
- Taking a look: A roofer will need to haul out the ladder and climb up to take a look at the existing surface. During this inspection, crucial data will be jotted down including worn or loose shingles, evidence of leaking, pooling of debris or puddles of water, approximate age of existing roof, and a measurement of exact square footage. When a roof is measured, these contractors talk in terms of “squares” as in it’s a “ten square roof” which equates to a 10 foot by 10 foot surface or 100 square feet.
- Assembling materials: Shingles or other roofing material such as metal, tile or wood will need to be assembled for the job. Packets of shingles come out to approximately three bundles for every square. Underlayment, nails, nail guns or hammers, screws, tarps, caulk and waterproofing sealant are examples of other products that will need to be gathered to put together a brand new roof.
- Tearing off: The tearing off of old shingles or material is as much work as putting on the new layer. This must be done thoroughly or the next layer won’t adhere properly. A dumpster should be positioned close by the rooftop so that the discarded debris can be tossed in during the tear off.
- Prepping the surface: The surface must be clean, dry and cleared of all old nails, screws, rusted flashing and rotting boards. This underneath layer needs to be repaired if damaged parts were removed during the prep time. Sweeping or shop-vacuuming the area will also be necessary to provide an area ready for adhesive and shingles.
- Laying the shingles, tile, or metal: Nearly the final step is to lay out shingles, wood, tile or metal. When it’s laid out, it’s time t hammer the materials into place.
- Clean up: The new roof surface will need to be swept and cleaned up. The debris which has fallen to the ground around the edges of the building also needs to be discarded. If a dumpster has been rented, it’s time to call for the haul away.
Depending on the type of material which was chosen for the roof, this new layer should last from twenty to thirty years. A high quality shingle or other material should make the house look good and remain dry inside for a good long time.
